Nigel Mansell Criticises F1 Overtakes 2026

Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Nigel Mansell has criticised the latest Formula 1 technical regulations, arguing that they are producing “totally false” overtakes and undermining the authenticity of on-track competition.

The 2026 rules, particularly the 50:50 split between internal combustion engine output and electrical energy, have drawn scrutiny since the opening rounds. Drivers are now required to manage energy more aggressively, even during qualifying, where maintaining full pace throughout a lap is no longer viable.

In addition, the reliance on complex algorithms to control energy deployment has reduced the level of direct driver input, creating scenarios where performance gains are dictated by system behaviour rather than driver intent.

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Mansell, the 1992 world champion, believes this has fundamentally altered the nature of overtaking in Formula 1.

“Some of the overtakes look impressive, but they are not genuine. The car suddenly gains speed because of energy deployment rather than driver decision-making,” Mansell explained.

He referenced an example involving Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton, where an overtake occurred due to energy deployment dynamics rather than a conventional racing manoeuvre.

According to Mansell, this shift risks diminishing the core competitive element of the sport, as technological factors begin to outweigh driver skill in decisive moments.

He also addressed the reaction from fans, suggesting that frustration with the current regulations is justified given the perceived impact on racing quality.

“Fans have every right to feel frustrated. We need to be careful not to move too far away from what makes racing authentic,” he added.

With further regulatory adjustments set to be introduced at the Miami Grand Prix, including changes to battery energy limits, the effectiveness of the current framework will remain under close evaluation as the 2026 season progresses.